CSIR-NIScPR (CSIR-National Institute of Science Communication and Policy Research) organised a brainstorming meeting on “Prevalence, risks, challenges, contributing factors and socio-economic impact of stroke: The case of India” 28 June 2024. The event brought together leading experts, researchers, and healthcare professionals from around the nation to discuss critical issues related to stroke management.Dr Rohit Bhatia, Professor, Department of Neurology, Neurosciences Centre, AIIMS, New Delhi, emphasised the urgent need for stroke system audits and highlighted the importance of creating a global data model that collects information from various hotspots worldwide. The lack of stroke units in hospitals remains a significant challenge, and raising awareness about stroke prevention is crucial.

Deepti Vibha, Additional Professor, Clinical Epidemiology, Department of Neurology, AIIMS, New Delhi, stressed the relevance of capturing patient views. Talking about the importance of data, she informed that this valuable data, which has not been systematically collected before, can inform better stroke prevention strategies.

Dr Rajni Kant Srivastava, Former and Founder Director of ICMR-Regional Medical Research Centre, Gorakhpur, said, “This meeting is a critical step toward addressing the global burden of stroke. Collaboration and data sharing are essential.”

Addressing the meeting, Dr Naresh Kumar, Chief Scientist at CSIR-NIScPR, said, “Our commitment to stroke research drives us to create meaningful dialogues and actionable solutions.”

Shifalika Goenka, Professor, Public Health Foundation of India, Delhi, and Vishnu VY, Associate Professor at the Department of Neurology, AIIMS, New Delhi, joined the interactive session virtually, contributing diverse perspectives.

Dr Suman Ray, Project leader and Principal Scientist at CSIR-NIScPR, presented the project overview and vote of thanks.